As I sifted through my pantry one rainy afternoon, a small jar of Nutella caught my eye, whispering sweet promises of indulgence. It sparked an idea that led to the creation of my heavenly Nutella Macarons, where light and airy shells embrace a silky Nutella buttercream filling. Perfect for showcasing culinary finesse, these macarons are not only a charming centerpiece for gatherings but also incredibly easy to whip up at home, allowing you to escape the fast-food routine. The delightful crunch of the chocolatey exterior combined with the smooth, rich interior makes every bite a moment of bliss. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into these decadent treats!
Why are Nutella Macarons so special?
Irresistible, these Nutella Macarons are a chocolate lover’s dream, combining rich hazelnut flavor with a classic French pastry. Easy to make, you’ll impress guests without requiring advanced baking skills. Versatile filling options allow you to get creative—try different frostings for variety! Great for any occasion, these delightful treats elevate gatherings and sweeten mundane moments. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or save some for a later treat; just follow my storage tips to keep them fresh.
Nutella Macaron Ingredients
For the Shells
- Egg Whites – Essential for creating the perfect meringue structure.
- White Sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the meringue, ensuring a lovely texture.
- Almond Flour – Gives macarons their characteristic chewiness; make sure it’s finely ground for best results.
- Powdered Sugar – Enhances sweetness while helping achieve that iconic macaron texture.
- Cocoa Powder – Introduces a chocolatey flavor; you can swap it with extra almond flour for a classic shell base.
For the Nutella Buttercream
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and creaminess to the buttercream filling.
- Nutella – The star of the buttercream; its luscious hazelnut flavor shines through.
- Salt – A pinch enhances the overall flavor, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Milk – Adjusts the buttercream consistency for a smooth and spreadable filling.
For the Topping
- Chocolate Chips – Ideal for melting and drizzling, adding an elegant finish.
- Chopped Hazelnuts – Sprinkled on top for added crunch and visual appeal, elevating these Nutella Macarons.
These delectable Nutella Macarons are as delightful to create as they are to devour; with precise ingredients and a dash of love, you’ll impress everyone at your next gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nutella Macarons
Step 1: Prepare the Shells
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone mat placed over a macaron template. In a double boiler, whisk together egg whites and white sugar until frothy, then transfer to a stand mixer to whip until stiff peaks form, achieving a glossy meringue.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Sift together almond flour, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder in a separate bowl. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the meringue using a spatula, ensuring a smooth, glossy batter forms without deflating the mixture. This Nutella Macaron batter should look luscious and maintain a figure-eight pattern when lifted from the bowl.
Step 3: Pipe the Mixture
Transfer the batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe uniform circles onto the prepared baking sheets, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Once piped, gently tap the trays on the counter to release any air bubbles. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect macaron feet!
Step 4: Let the Shells Rest
Allow the piped macarons to rest at room temperature for 20-40 minutes, or until they form a skin that is no longer tacky to the touch. During this time, the surface will develop a slight sheen; this resting period is essential for getting that coveted crisp shell in your Nutella Macarons.
Step 5: Bake the Shells
Bake the macarons in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, rotating the trays halfway through for even baking. Keep a close eye on them in the final minutes; they should rise and develop feet while remaining intact. LED indicators will signal when ready, as they should lift easily off the parchment once cooled.
Step 6: Create Nutella Buttercream
While the shells cool, make the Nutella buttercream. In a mixing bowl, beat unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually mix in Nutella and sifted powdered sugar, then a pinch of salt. Whip until the buttercream is fluffy, adjusting with milk until you achieve a spreadable consistency for your Nutella Macarons.
Step 7: Assemble Macarons
Pair the cooled macaron shells, and pipe the Nutella buttercream generously onto half of them. Top each filled shell with another macaron to create delightful sandwiches. This luscious filling is what makes your Nutella Macarons irresistibly delicious!
Step 8: Drizzle and Decorate
Melt chocolate chips in a microwave or double boiler, then drizzle over the assembled Nutella Macarons for an elegant finish. For added texture and visual appeal, sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top of the chocolate drizzle, transforming your treats into a stunning dessert.
Nutella Macarons Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor these delightful Nutella Macarons to your personal taste!
- Nut-Free Option: Replace almond flour with finely ground oat flour for a gluten-free and nut-free macaron.
- Flavored Buttercream: Experiment with different flavors like vanilla extract or orange zest in your buttercream for a unique twist. By doing this, you can surprise your taste buds and keep things fresh.
- Dark Chocolate: Use dark cocoa powder for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor in the shells. This adds depth to your macaron, making it an even more delightful treat.
- Fruit-Filled: Substitute Nutella with fruit preserves, like raspberry or strawberry, for a fruity option that pairs beautifully with the chocolate shell. Just imagine a sweet burst of flavor with every bite!
- Spiced Macarons: Add a pinch of cinnamon or instant coffee granules to the cocoa powder for a warm spice that complements the chocolate flavor nicely. This golden touch can elevate your macaron game immensely.
- Texture Variations: Incorporate crushed freeze-dried fruits or finely chopped nuts into the buttercream for added texture and flavor. This little detail can make your macarons even more exciting to eat.
- Vegan Adaptation: Swap egg whites for aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) and replace butter with a vegan alternative for a delicious vegan macaron. You won’t believe how delicious these can be!
- Decorative Toppings: Try drizzling caramel or white chocolate over your assembled macarons for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal. Just picture these sweet little gems glamoured with shiny toppings!
No matter how you decide to customize, there’s a world of flavor waiting for you to explore in your kitchen. For some great tips on preparing various fillings, check out my guide on creative frosting ideas.
How to Store and Freeze Nutella Macarons
Fridge: Store your Nutella Macarons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Make sure each macaron is separated by parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Nutella Macarons for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to keep them intact.
Reheating: To enjoy the frozen macarons, simply transfer them to the fridge to thaw overnight before serving. Avoid microwaving, which can alter their texture.
Make-Ahead: Consider storing the macarons’ shells and filling separately for the freshest taste. Assemble them just before serving for the best experience!
Expert Tips for Nutella Macarons
- Measure Precisely: Use a kitchen scale for accurate ingredient measurements; this is key for perfect Nutella Macarons that rise beautifully.
- Grease-Free Utensils: Ensure all bowls and whisks are completely grease-free to achieve stable meringue—any residue can cause the egg whites to deflate.
- Resting Time Matters: Don’t skip the resting period; it’s essential for forming a skin that helps develop the iconic macaron feet while baking.
- Watch Closely While Baking: Baking times may vary—keep a close eye during the last few minutes to prevent overbaking or cracking of your macarons.
- Cool Completely: Allow the macaron shells to cool completely before filling; this helps maintain their structure and prevents the filling from melting.
Make Ahead Options
These Nutella Macarons are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the macaron shells up to 24 hours in advance by making them and allowing them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Nutella buttercream filling can be prepped up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in the fridge in an airtight container until you’re ready to assemble. When you’re ready to serve, pipe the buttercream onto the macaron shells and drizzle with melted chocolate, and sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts for that extra touch. This way, your Nutella Macarons remain just as delightful with minimal effort on busy days!
What to Serve with Nutella Macarons
For a truly delightful dining experience, let’s explore the perfect companions to bring out the scrumptious flavors of your Nutella Macarons.
-
French Press Coffee: The rich notes of freshly brewed coffee will enhance the hazelnut chocolate flavors, making each bite even more pleasurable.
-
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful temperature contrast; the creaminess beautifully pairs with the chewy macarons.
-
Fresh Berries: A burst of tartness from strawberries or raspberries will balance the sweetness of the macarons, offering a refreshing contrast on the palate.
-
Chocolate Ganache Tart: Elevate your dessert table with a slice of chocolate ganache tart; its deep chocolate flavor complements the luxurious nutty tones of the Nutella.
-
Sparkling Wine: Pair your macarons with a glass of sparkling wine; the effervescence lightens the sweetness while adding a celebratory flair.
-
Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti enhances the nutty profile; perfect for dipping while enjoying coffee with your Nutella Macarons.
These carefully curated pairings not only complete the experience but transform a sweet treat into an enchanting culinary occasion.
Nutella Macarons Recipe FAQs
What type of egg whites should I use for the macarons?
I highly recommend using room temperature egg whites for your Nutella Macarons. They whip up to a greater volume, creating a lighter meringue. If you can, age your egg whites for a day or two; this helps improve their stability and results in a better texture.
How can I store my Nutella Macarons to keep them fresh?
To keep your Nutella Macarons fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. It’s best to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can also keep individual components, like shells and filling, in separate containers for optimal freshness.
Can I freeze Nutella Macarons?
Absolutely! You can freeze Nutella Macarons for up to two months. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container, using parchment paper between layers. To thaw, transfer them to the fridge overnight; this will help maintain their delicate texture without sogginess.
What should I do if my macarons crack while baking?
If your macarons crack, it can be due to a few reasons. First, be sure not to overmix the batter, which can cause excess air leading to cracks. Additionally, ensure your oven temperature is accurate; an oven thermometer can help. Lastly, allowing the macarons to rest before baking is crucial for achieving the desired shell texture.
Can I make Nutella Macarons gluten-free?
Yes, Nutella Macarons are gluten-free as they are made with almond flour, which naturally contains no gluten. However, always check the labels on other ingredients like Nutella to ensure they’re gluten-free, especially if you have a severe allergy.
How can I troubleshoot if my macaron feet don’t develop?
To achieve those coveted macaron feet, ensure that you allow the piped batter to rest until the surface is dry to the touch—this usually takes 20-40 minutes. If they still don’t rise correctly, it could be due to not mixing the batter enough. Gently fold until the batter flows smoothly but retains some thickness. Adjusting the oven temperature might also be necessary—if they bake too quickly, they won’t have time to develop feet!
Irresistible Nutella Macarons: A Delectable Delight!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mat.
- In a double boiler, whisk egg whites and white sugar until frothy, then whip to stiff peaks.
- Sift together almond flour, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder, then fold into the meringue.
- Pipe circles onto prepared sheets, tap to release air bubbles.
- Let macarons rest for 20-40 minutes until they form a skin.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, rotating trays halfway through.
- Beat unsalted butter until creamy, then mix in Nutella and powdered sugar, and whip until fluffy.
- Assemble by piping buttercream onto half of cooled shells and sandwiching.
- Melt chocolate chips and drizzle over the assembled macarons, topping with hazelnuts.